Vet Serves in Denver, CO

Dr. Lori Schmalz

Verified Veterinarian

61 reviews

Why I provide at-home pet euthanasia

Becoming a veterinarian was a natural choice for me given my upbringing in which nearly all activities revolved around our animals. I followed the passion that was instilled in me by my family. I performed my first at-home euthanasia in 2007. It was an amazing experience with an owner and pet I had been caring for in clinic. I'll never forget what a beautiful day it was as I watched the owner kiss each of her dog's feet as he fell asleep in his beloved yard. It opened my eyes to how euthanasia could be and should be. Since then I have strived to provide excellent service so my clients and patients have the best possible experience in such a difficult and tender time.

Education

Undergraduate: Bowling Green State University - 1988

Veterinary Medicine: Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine - 1992

Certifications

3

CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian), Human-Animal Bond Certified, Fear Free Certified

 CAETA's CPEV (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Veterinarian)Human-Animal Bond CertifiedFear Free Certified
  • Based InLittleton, CO
  • Service areasDenver, CO & surrounding areas
  • Work Experience33+ years
  • Animals ServedAll Dogs & Cats
  • Notice Required2 hours

General availability

Wednesday10:00 am - 6:30 pm

Availability each week can vary based on demand and scheduling. Please provide a minimum 2 hour advance notice for all bookings.

Services provided

At home pet euthanasia

Dr. Lori Schmalz will help your beloved pet transition peacefully in the comfort of of their home, surrounded by loved ones

Est. CostStarting at $349

Pet cremation

Dr. Lori Schmalz will arrange and handle all of your cremation needs, including careful and loving transportation of your pet to the crematorium through private or communal process handled

Est. CostFrom $149 - $499

Keepsakes

Clay paw prints, wooden urns with personalizations available with ashes returned

Est. CostFrom $18 - $265

Quality of life consult

Schedule a 1-on-1 with a vet over a virtual conference call or at home.

Est. CostStarting at $225

What pet parents are saying

Losing our sweet Ruby to cancer was one of the hardest moments our family has ever faced. During such an emotional time, Dr. Lori Schmalz provided extraordinary compassion and professionalism. Having the at-home euthanasia allowed Ruby to be surrounded by love in the comfort of her own home, which meant everything to us. Dr. Schmalz was gentle, patient, and deeply respectful throughout the entire process. She took the time to explain each step, gave us space to say our goodbyes, and treated Ruby with the utmost dignity. In a moment filled with grief, her kindness truly helped carry our family through. We are profoundly grateful for the care and empathy she showed. I would wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Schmalz to any family facing this incredibly difficult decision.

codapet review
5.0
Feb 27 2026 by Paul C.
Review by Paul C.
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

We were so thankful that Dr. Schmalz was able to come to our home on a Sunday (the same day we contacted her) to provide an in-home pet euthanasia for our sweet, beloved cat who had started to suffer dramatically the night before. Although putting a pet down is always incredibly difficult to decide upon and go through, we were so grateful that Dr. Schmalz could do this in our home where our cat was most comfortable and at peace in his final moments, where we felt more able to grieve openly, and where our other pets could be close by and better process the loss. Having now been through pet euthanasia procedures in both clinical and at-home settings, I will always choose in-home pet euthanasia going forward. Dr. Schmalz was so kind, compassionate, and respectful and really made this process as peaceful as we could ask for. Thank you so much for this amazing service.

codapet review
5.0
Dec 27 2024 by Emily Bowman
Review by Emily Bowman
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

Dr Schmalz made one of the worst days of our lives, as peaceful as it could be. Tesla laid on her favorite blanket, one she always stole from me, on the front porch where she watched over the neighborhood, a simple shot and it slowly took effect as she ate her doggy ice cream. Dr Schmalz was kind and empathetic and reassured us we were making the right decision. We are very thankful she helped us through such a difficult time.

codapet review
5.0
Oct 24 2025 by Joe H.
Review by Joe H.
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

I have had pets euthanized in the past but my experience with Dr Lori was the best experience I could have had in such sad times with baby, Oscar. She was so gentle, calm, kind and not once did I feel rushed by her. Dr Lori talked to me about Oscar’s life, my favorite memories and I know that his at home, euthanasia, with her, was the best choice for him. I felt so comfortable with handing her over Oscar and knowing he was in the best hands he could be in. Thank you again Dr Lori!

codapet review
5.0
Oct 18 2024 by Alyssa A.
Review by Alyssa A.
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

We chose Dr. Lori to do our at home euthanasia with our 14 year old doggie who was ready to cross to the rainbow bridge. Dr. Lori was very professional, patient, caring, had a very calm presence, and you could tell Dr. Lori has lots of experience. She is extremely good at what she does and I feel so blessed she helped us with this difficult time:( I have referred her to many and will continue to refer her. Thanks Lori!! xoxo

codapet review
5.0
Oct 18 2024 by June D.
Review by June D.
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture

This was such a hard day, but Dr. Lori made it easier and more peaceful. She truly cares about her patients and their families. I'll always be grateful for the way she handled us and the respect she gave to our sweet old girl.

codapet review
5.0
Nov 23 2024 by Abigail Ricks
Review by Abigail Ricks
Dr. Lori Schmalz profile picture